Why you should add Indonesia to your Indie/RTW trip

Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world with over 18,000 islands scattered throughout the Indian Ocean and various seas.

The island nation is almost entirely coastal and tropical, making it a vacationer's dream.

Unlike many other warm, sunny places, the cost of experiencing Indonesia's islands in the sun has not caught up with the destination's popularity.

Indonesia has over 230 million residents (yes, you read that right) and, thanks to that population density, Indonesia remains an inexpensive place to visit.

Lounge on the beach and take part in a myriad of water activities.

Travel by boat from island to island, finding the one that's just right for you.

If you tire of the water and beach, explore the plethora of active volcanoes dotting the archipelago.

Indie travel tips for Indonesia

Capital Jakarta is Indonesia's most powerful and populated city and is the cultural capital of Indonesia

Bali is its most popular with tourists and has the best beaches.

There many other urban centers to see in this overpopulated island paradise, but you'll find nowhere more representative of the rest of the whole than Jakarta and Bali.

Besides beaches, Indonesia also has the world's second largest rainforest and other natural wonders. If you have time after getting your fill of the local culture and customs, explore the attractions around you.

Did you know Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world? Come prepared with proper clothing and be aware of cultural differences.

Travel is not always easy in Indonesia, so bring your patience and an open mind along with you.

Don't be put off by the aggressive touts in parts of Bali and Jakarta - there are plenty of wonderful, smiling, friendly people throughout the rest of the country.

Temporarily escape the heat and travel to the highlands.

Transportation

Flights to Bali and Jakarta arrive every day from many locations around the world. The more expensive your ticket, the more likely your flight is to be on time and to make it all the way to its destination.

Accommodation

Indonesia lives and breathes tourism in Jakarta and Bali, you won't have any problem finding a room in some of the nicest luxury resorts on the planet, or for those on a tighter budget, a hostel. There is also accommodation outside of the tourist centers, but the quality is a toss up.

Indonesia Adventure Trips

Budget Scale

Editor Rating: $25-40USD/day - The budget for Indonesia can vary wildly based on a number of factors - how slow (or fast you travel), how far out of the typical tourist centers you get, and how willing you are to rough it. Bare-bones backpackers can get by on $10-20 per day, but if you're looking to live it up, you can spend over $100.

Indie Travel Scale

Editor Rating: 8 - Indonesia offers a variety of experiences for the indie traveler, it just depends on how patient you are and how much time you have. If you stick to the popular areas of Bali and don't venture any further, you'll be surrounded by resorts and packaged tours. The further you go, the better chance you have to experience all Indonesia has to offer.